NEWS OF THE WEEK.
THE German Emperor opened the Reichstag on Tuesday in a long speech, in which he dwelt on three points,—that his policy was peace, that he must have more soldiers during peace-time, and that he had prepared Bills to carry out the labour reforms suggestedsby the Conference. "The lasting maintenance of peace," said the Emperor, "is the unceasing -aim of all my efforts." "It is the duty of the Empire to foster the alliances concluded for our defence." Nevertheless, as since the Septennate was passed "the Armies of neighbouring States have been increased and perfected in an unforeseen manner," an increase of the standing army, and especially the artillery, can no longer be postponed. This increase, it is known, will be one of 50,000 men, besides a large addition to the field artillery. As to the labour question, the Government's first suggestions are the grant to the working men of Sunday as a day of rest, and the restriction of the labour of women and children. Paternal authority will also be strengthened " to meet the growing insubordination of the young," and the Courts of Arbitration will be better regulated, so that they may be called in in labour disputes. The principle of legislation will be that "the more fully the working classes recognise the conscientious earnestness of the Empire" in ameliorating their condition, "the more clearly will they see the danger of unreasonable demands." "The Governments of Germany will oppose with inflexible determination every effort to upset law and order." It is understood that the Bills will prohibit the working of women in mines, or at night, or for more than eleven hours ; will limit the labour of children under fourteen to six hours ; and will contain a clause forbidding the dismissal of men without specific offence against rules. The grant of the Sunday and the protection of women are clear gains to the working class.
